red necklace sequence

I just purchased the best red beaded necklace from Denise Jewelry Designs on Etsy. I thought I'd give you a little sneak peek at what usually happens in my head when I get excited about a new purchase. Let's just say... I won't deny being a big dreamer. ;)

necklace  •  fashion set  • paris pics 1 2 3

hidden eiffel

There's something about being able to take old unwanted things and create new art out of them that is deeply satisfying for me. One of the easiest ways I know how to do this is taking an old canvas - usually that I've found at a thrift store or possible garage sale - and repainting it. *When doing this, try to get past the god-awful dated painting on it and look to see if the frame has potential and if the canvas is in good shape and not warped.;)

Below is one of my favorites. I found an old painting of the Eiffel Tower, rotated it and painted, frame included. I love that you can still make out the structure of the tower. I think it adds interest and is kind of a fun story to tell, ya know? :)

amazing grace

It's been quite awhile since I've posted. What happened? Christmas shopping? Holiday madness?  ... Life? ...   A little bit of everything I think.  

2014 has just barely begun and although I'm filled with optimism and goals and hopes... the truth is, this will be a tough year. For myself and for my family. I won't go into detail because I honestly don't have all the answers right now. I DO know I have a lot of amazing friends and family there for me, I've been reading a lot, doing a little bit of yoga, and overall, just trying to stay healthy - mentally and physically. And yes, there's been a few nights of bubble baths, moody music and a few too many glasses of wine - don't judge. Sometimes a girl needs what a girl needs.  

One of my favorite items of 2013 was Philosophy's Amazing Grace lotion. I was SO so so happy to get more for Christmas and also the perfume to go with it. (Seriously, I've gotten so many compliments on this lotion - it's the best - fresh, clean and beautiful - try it - it's addictive.) I was struck by the message on the perfume box because it's very fitting right now and is truly how I'd really like to take on my 2014.

philosophy: how you climb up the mountain is just as important as how you get down the mountain. and so it is with life, which for many of us becomes one big gigantic test followed by one big gigantic lesson. in the end, it all comes down to one word. grace. 

it's how you accept winning and losing, good luck and bad luck, the darkness and the light.

So here's to living 2014  with Grace.  

*cheers*